British lawmakers and legal experts have called for inclusive, fair elections in Bangladesh and expressed grave concern over ongoing human rights violations, especially against minorities and opposition activists.
Over 100 participants—including senior British political leaders, human rights advocates, and diaspora representatives—attended a high-profile seminar this week at the House of Commons in London. The event, chaired by Lord Alex Carlile of Berriew, addressed the current political landscape in Bangladesh, with a focus on democracy, the rule of law, and the role of political parties.
Organised by the Conservative Friends of Bangladesh and chaired by MP Bob Blackman, who also leads the influential 1922 Committee, the seminar stressed that any upcoming elections in Bangladesh must be inclusive, with the participation of all political parties, including the ruling Awami League, to be seen as credible by the international community.
Lord Carlile, a prominent jurist, warned that elections lacking inclusivity would lack legitimacy on the global stage. Blackman echoed the sentiment, calling for “sincere efforts” to ensure the next polls are free, fair, and impartial.
King’s Counsel John Cammegh advised the Bangladesh government to avoid politically motivated prosecutions and instead consider a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. “International criminal tribunals have often become tools of vengeance,” he said, arguing they deepen national divisions and fuel instability.
Representatives from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), including Zahid Hussain, Abdul Malek, and Sumon Roy, demanded immediate elections and pledged to uphold democratic governance if voted into power. Human rights concerns were also raised by Professor Abbas Faiz of Essex University and former Amnesty International official, who cited the persistent persecution of opposition voices and religious minorities.
Haradhan Bhowmik, a Hindu community leader, urged the release of prisoners such as Chimmoy Das Brahmachari and called for global action against systemic minority oppression. Buddhist leader Prashant Bhushan Barua added that any future BNP-led movement must clearly reject mob violence and sectarian unrest.
Pappu Saha, a recent victim of political violence in Bangladesh, submitted documentation of his assault and the destruction of his home to British MPs. His testimony added urgency to calls for international monitoring and protection of marginalised groups.
Contributions also came from former Labour MP and current Reform Party candidate Simon Danczuk, as well as political leaders, community organisers, and civil society voices from across the UK. The event was coordinated by Sujit Sen, Deputy Chairman of Conservative Friends of Bangladesh.
